Camp Creek Fire in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness impacts air quality across Great Falls region; smoke seen rising

Smoke from the growing Camp Creek Fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness has spread across north-central Montana.

Smoke from the Camp Creek Fire in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness is affecting air quality across north-central Montana. Residents have reported a large smoke plume visible from communities including Great Falls.

Smoke from the growing Camp Creek Fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness has spread across north-central Montana (Representational) (Unsplash )

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Great Falls warned residents that smoke from the fire was moving across the region and could create unhealthy conditions, especially for people sensitive to air pollution.

Officials have advised residents to reduce time outdoors and take precautions if they experience breathing problems.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can affect people with asthma, heart conditions, respiratory illnesses and other sensitivities. Health officials often recommend staying indoors when smoke levels increase, keeping windows closed and using air filtration systems when possible.

Residents across Great Falls and nearby communities have been urged to monitor local air quality reports and follow guidance from emergency officials.

Large smoke plume visible

Curtis Grevenitz on Facebook shared an aerial image of smoke rising from the area and wrote, “Camp Creek Fire in the Bob Marshall is popping off something fierce. Smoke plume visible across north central Montana.”

Another local on Facebook wrote, “I was up at Gibson Reservoir and we left as the fire blew up.” The user also shared an image overlooking the reservoir with a brownish coat of air.

Air quality conditions are measured through monitoring systems that track pollutants, including fine particulate matter known as PM2.5. These particles can travel deep into the lungs and may cause irritation even among healthy individuals.

One user complained of the smell in the area commented, “It's bad in Vaughn. Smells like a fresh camp fire.”

Another user wrote, “Came in fast and hard to Choteau with ash fall out too.” One user also reported that Augusta was really smoky after wind carried the smoke from Bob Marshall wilderness.

Fire activity raises concerns during Montana wildfire season

The Camp Creek Fire comes as Montana continues to face the challenges of the annual wildfire season. Dry vegetation, warm temperatures and shifting winds can quickly increase fire intensity across forested regions.

The Bob Marshall Wilderness has experienced several wildfire events over the years because of its vast forest coverage and natural fire conditions.

Fire agencies are expected to provide additional updates as crews gather more information about the Camp Creek Fire’s growth, containment efforts and potential impacts.

For now, residents in north-central Montana are being asked to stay informed and take precautions as smoke from the Bob Marshall Wilderness continues to affect regional air quality.